Lesson 5 of 5 · Learn Major League Rugby
Lesson 5: Basic Strategy and Beginner Tips
Now that you know the rules, here is how teams use them strategically — and tips for enjoying the game as a beginner.
Forward vs. Back Roles:
- Forwards (8 players) — bigger and physical; they compete in scrums, lineouts, rucks, and mauls to win possession
- Backs (7 players) — faster and more agile; they use the ball in open space to create scoring chances
Key Strategies Teams Use:
- Kicking for territory — teams kick the ball deep into opposition ground to gain field position
- Targeting the posts — if a penalty is awarded close enough, teams often take a 3-point penalty goal as a safe option
- Aiming for the MLR 7-point zone — grounding the ball directly under the posts saves a conversion kick and guarantees the full 7 points
- Earning bonus points — scoring 4 or more tries in a match earns a try-scoring bonus point in the standings
Beginner Tips for Watching:
- Watch the ball carrier and where the defenders line up
- Listen for the referee's whistle — it signals a foul or stoppage
- Count the phases (how many times the team recycles possession) — good teams build pressure over many phases
- Enjoy the flow — rugby rarely stops for long!